Fact or fiction: Analyzing 12 Golden State Warriors trade rumors

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 20: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after scoring against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball first round playoff game on August 20, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ashley Landis - Pool/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 20: Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after scoring against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball first round playoff game on August 20, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ashley Landis - Pool/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

7. Ben Simmons – Fiction

If the Golden State Warriors had to choose between trading for Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid – their main target should be Simmons. A generational talent at the guard position that can create plays and defend at a high-level, the Warriors would thrive with Simmons facilitating for the Splash Brothers.

In addition to his talent as a creator, Simmons is much more reliable than Embiid health-wise. Though Simmons has had some significant injuries throughout his young career there is still a higher chance he sustains more longevity than Embiid who has had plenty of scares for a player of his size.

However, Philadelphia is now appearing unlikely to part ways with Simmons. Not only because of the fact that they want to test out a new head coach before splitting up the duo but because of how poorly the team played in the postseason without Simmons.

If the 76ers have to build around one of their stars – it’s looking like it will be Simmons. All they will need to do is flip Embiid for a collection of shooters and defenders to compose an elite supporting cast for Simmons. In contrast, the team would need a ton of luck to succeed with Embiid. This puts a dent in the Warriors’ hopes of trading for Simmons.